Mexico 1856 Hidalgo 'Medio Real' Black on Yellowish Paper

Mexico · 1856 · ½ Real

This stamp features a portrait of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a key figure in Mexico's War of Independence. As the first adhesive postage stamp issued by Mexico, it is a classic and historically significant issue. The design is simple, focusing on the portrait within an oval frame, with the denomination 'MEDIO REAL' inscribed below.

Issued in 1856, this stamp marks Mexico's entry into the postal reform movement that began with Great Britain's Penny Black. These early issues were often overprinted with district names to prevent theft and misuse.